How to Move On a Tight Moving Budget

You find yourself having to make a residential move, and your budget is pretty slim. While moving can bring along some extra expenses, there are also a few good ways to save money. 

1. Get creative when sourcing packing supplies.

The cost of large moving boxes, packing paper, and quilted pads can add up. Not to mention the other packing supplies you will need like tape and bubble wrap. If you have a lot to pack, the cost of moving supplies is something to consider. Look for budget-friendly options: 

  • Some grocery stores give away boxes that you can easily use for packing
  • Check with local businesses for newspapers to use as packing paper 
  • Use your own heavy blankets and towels to protect your furniture

As an adage, some moving companies provide discounted moving supplies like gently-used boxes for free or for a discount when you hire them for help. 

2. Sell what you don’t need. 

The fewer items you have to move, the more cost-effective your move will be. If you have things you don’t need, consider selling them instead of carrying them to your new place. You could post the articles on local classified groups online or even host a garage sale. As a side note, some items that you may consider trash you might be able to recycle for extra cash. For example, a lot of metal recycling centers will pay money for old metal appliances. With a bit of sorting and effort, you may even make some money to put toward your moving costs. 

3. Cut your utility usage where possible and split deposit payments when you can.

When you are in the process of moving, utility costs can change. You may have to pay for whatever you use before leaving your current address and paying a deposit to get service at the new place. Cut utility usage before moving day not to find yourself financially overwhelmed with the final bill. You may try: 

  • Raising the thermostat a few degrees to prevent the AC from kicking on so often 
  • Lowering electric heat settings a bit while you’re up packing or while in bed 
  • Unplugging electronics when they are not in use 
  • Scaling back on limited internet usage 
  • Opting for showers over baths to save water usage

Keep in mind that some companies will allow you to split up deposit payments throughout your first few bills, which may help you save a bit during the move. 

4. Create a meal plan to save money on eating out.

When you’re in the middle of a move, it can be tempting to eat out and grab food on the fly instead of cooking. However, restaurant meals can be 325 percent more expensive than a meal you prepare at home on your own. Even just making your coffee at home could save around $40 in 30 days. Create yourself a meal plan, make your coffee at home, and you could save quite a bit to put toward your move. 

5. Enlist help to avoid time off of work.

While it may seem counterintuitive to hire professional movers to help you move, doing so can mean you have more free time, and you may not have to miss much time from work. If you are ready to tack down your moving budget and need to get an idea of the cost, reach out to us for a free moving quote today.